Attendance matters at Dundas Public School
Arrive by nine – it's learning time!
At Dundas Public School, we believe every school day matters. Regular attendance helps students build strong foundations in learning, develop friendships, feel connected to their school community and achieve their personal best.
We are committed to working in partnership with families to ensure every child feels safe, supported and ready to learn.
Why attendance matters
When children attend school regularly, they have more opportunities to:
- Develop essential literacy and numeracy skills.
- Build positive friendships and social connections.
- Develop confidence, independence and resilience.
- Participate in classroom learning and school activities.
- Feel a sense of belonging within our school community.
Even small amounts of missed learning can add up over time.
Missing just one day of school each fortnight adds up to approximately four weeks of learning over a year.
Arrive by nine – it's learning time!
Our school day begins at 9:00 am.
At Dundas Public School, important learning begins from the moment students enter their classrooms.
We ask all families to ensure their children arrive at school before 9:00 am, ready to begin learning.
Arriving on time helps students:
- Settle into their classroom routines.
- Participate in daily reviews and explicit teaching.
- Start the day feeling calm, confident and connected.
- Make the most of every learning opportunity.
What if my child is absent?
We understand that children may occasionally be absent due to illness or other justified circumstances.
If your child is absent from school:
- Notify the school through School Bytes.
- Provide a reason for the absence within seven days.
- Contact the school if your child is likely to be absent for an extended period.
- Arrange family holidays during school holiday periods wherever possible.
Parents and carers are responsible for ensuring their children attend school regularly in accordance with NSW compulsory school attendance requirements.
What if my child arrives late?
If your child arrives after 9:00 am:
- Report to the school office with your child.
- Provide an explanation for the late arrival.
- Follow the school's late arrival sign-in procedures.
We encourage families to establish consistent morning routines to support punctuality.
We're here to help
We understand that some children and families may experience challenges that affect school attendance.
These may include anxiety, health concerns, disability, additional learning needs or family circumstances.
Our staff are here to listen, understand and work with you.
Together, we can develop strategies to support your child's wellbeing, confidence and regular attendance at school.
If you are experiencing difficulties getting your child to school, please contact their classroom teacher or the school office. Early conversations help us provide the right support.
Helpful resources for families
The NSW Department of Education provides information and resources to help families understand attendance expectations and support regular school attendance.
Every day counts. Every minute matters. Every child belongs.
At Dundas Public School, we're working together to help every student be a safe, respectful learner who is ready to succeed.
Arrive by nine – it's learning time!